"Because of its non-binding character, one can hardly expect the programme to significantly lower the already high US emissions, if at all," Environment Minister Juergen Trittin said.

And his French counterpart, Yves Cochet, has called on the European Union to oppose Mr Bush's plans and urge him to ratify the Kyoto protocol instead.

For its part, China called on Washington to take
the lead in cutting greenhouse gases.

"Developed countries have the duty to take the lead in taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emission, because historically and
at present, they are the main emitters of greenhouse gas," a Chinese foreign ministry statement said.

Announcing the plan on Thursday, Mr Bush argued that economic growth is the key to environmental protection because it pays for the means to invest in cleaner industries.

Unfair exemptions

Mr Bush said the Kyoto treaty would have put millions of people out of work because of its mandatory reductions.